Discovering the Wealth of Our Students!

Today is Election Day, November 4, 2008, a day that undoubtedly will be recorded by historians across our great nation and world.  Unlike past presidential elections, this election will be burned in my memory for years to come not just because of the presidential candidates but also because of the enthusiasm and energy displayed by the voting constituency.  This presidential election has proved to be the most engaging election I’ve witnessed since my eighteenth birthday, just over twenty short years ago!   In just a few hours, a new president will be elected for and by the people.

I believe every American appreciates the freedoms we are afforded, particular the right to choose and vote as we wish.  Whether it’s a choice between schools to attend, neighborhoods in which to live, or which faith community to join, we have the right to choose.  This basic right has encouraged Americans to step up and hold themselves accountable to choose the next president of the United States.  Watching the young people in my community embrace this right as a responsibility has been most rewarding. 

While the list of pre-election activities involving the youth in my community has been great, a few that I’ve had the opportunity to enjoy include voter registration drives, candidate rallies, literature sharing, mock elections, and panel discussions.  During a school visit yesterday, a student encouraged me “to get up early to vote” as she had heard the lines would be long.  She expressed her excitement and anticipation of “going to the polls” since she had just turned nineteen years old.  In response, I shared her enthusiasm by extending a happy birthday hug while congratulating her on assuming her civic responsibility to vote! 

Be encouraged.  Celebrate youth awareness and participation in the electoral process in your community.  Secure the future.  Promote leadership development for the youth in your community.  Take a stand for all youth.  If you don’t, who will?